Recently, a batch of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile Virus. While no humans have been reported to have it, experts are still urging residents to use caution when outside.
The first mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile was confirmed by the Illinois Department of Public Health on June 1, according to the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). The statement released yesterday by the CDPH also added it’s “important to mitigate the spread of [West Nile virus] and other mosquito-borne diseases.”
Health officials say roughly one in five people who become infected can develop flu-like symptoms and a fever. However, those 60 and older can develop severe illness if infected.
Take Precaution for Mosquitoes
Furthermore, officials have encouraged Chicago residents to take certain precautions against mosquitoes. Like:
- Eliminate bodies of standing water. For example, any containers outdoors that have collected water. This includes gutters, toys, pet dishes, birdbaths, tires, and flower pots. This should be done weekly.
- Use bug repellants that contain Picaridin, IR3535, DEET, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. People should use these products as directed on the label.
- Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. People should also wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, socks, and shoes when outside between dusk and dawn.
- Keep weeds and grass short to eliminate hiding places for mosquitoes.
- Ensure all screens, windows, and doors are free of holes and tight-fitting. People should replace or repair any screens that have openings or tears.
Officials have also advised people to check on their neighbors regularly. Especially, those who live alone, are older, or need additional assistance.
“As summer approaches, we want to ensure that all Chicago residents can remain safe and healthy,” stated Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady.
Additional Areas
Other places across America have issued similar warnings. The state of Michigan has detected the Jamestown Canyon virus.
Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services chief medical executive, Natasha Bagdararian, stated, “It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to cause a severe illness.” This is why it is important to take preemptive measures when dealing with insects that can spread illnesses.
By Sheena Robertson
Sources:
The Detroit News: State’s first mosquito-borne virus of 2023 confirmed
NBC 5 Chicago: West Nile Virus found in Chicago-area mosquitoes
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Inset Image Courtesy of Tom‘s Flickr Page – creative commons License
